Elche v FC Barcelona - LaLiga EA Sports
ELCHE, SPAIN - AUGUST 23: Fermin Lopez of FC Barcelona celebrates 0-5 during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Elche v FC Barcelona at the Estadio Manuel Martinez Valero on August 23, 2026 in Elche Spain (Photo by David Ramirez/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Barcelona star Fermin Lopez says the players trust Deco to make the right call when it comes to signing a new No. 9 for the club.
The Catalans have started the season without a recognised striker in the first-team squad but still managed to smash five past Elche in their opener.
Lopez scored twice for Hansi Flick’s side and was asked about the striker position after the game.
“We trust Deco, whatever they decide will be best for the team, but it’s true that we have many options in the squad and we’ve shown that,” he said.
“It’s something that doesn’t depend on us, they’ll do what’s best for the club.”
Lopez was also thrilled to be back in action and back in the goals after a tough summer where he missed the World Cup due to injury.
“I was really looking forward to starting the year well; it’s been a tough summer for me. I think I’ve started well, I just need to keep getting back into rhythm, I’m exhausted. But I’m happy for the team,” he added.
“Yes, yes. My foot is fine now. Nothing much, now I just need to keep getting back into the swing of things and feel good again, comfortable.”
Hansi Flick also spoke about Barcelona’s No. 9 search after the game, saying he’ll talk again with Deco this week.